How to Remove Jean Dye From Suede

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Keep your suede clothing or shoes looking like new with a few simple tricks.

The dark indigo dye used in some blue jeans can transfer onto other clothes or shoes. Although it can be easy to wash your shirts, socks or even canvas tennis shoes, getting the dye out of suede is another issue. You cannot wash suede or use harsh products because you may end up ruining the leather. Instead, there are a few simple tricks to remove the jean dye from your suede.

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Things You'll Need

  • White bath towel

  • Clean rubber eraser

  • 1 tbsp. white vinegar

  • Soft toothbrush

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Step 1

Rub the suede gently with a clean, dry white bath towel to remove some of the dye and to agitate the suede nap.

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Step 2

Rub the suede with a clean, white rubber eraser. This trick will remove almost all of the dry indigo dye. Gently rub the stained area until all or most of the dye is gone. You'll notice the dye will transfer onto the eraser, so you may need to switch to a "clean" side after a few strokes. You can also cut the dyed ends of the eraser off with a pair of scissors. To remove any remaining indigo tint, continue to the next step.

Step 3

Dampen a clean, white bath towel. Pour 1 tbsp. of white vinegar into the dampened part of the towel. Blot the indigo tinted parts with the damp towel to remove any faint stains.

Step 4

Brush the nap of the suede with a soft, clean toothbrush to finish.

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